The Academy is a one-week program designed to provide youth, ages 14 to 17, in the City of Richardson first hand information about how the Police Department functions.

Academy participation requires a one-week commitment. Classes are held Monday through Friday and are four hours in duration.

Unless otherwise specified, classes will be held at the Richardson/Plano Police Training Academy (located at 4912 14th St. in Plano), so students are able to engage with a police officer and attend the same academy that

officers do.

What is the academy designed to do?

It is designed to increase understanding between the youth and police through education. The intent is to acquaint youth with law enforcement’s role in the criminal justice system and to provide increased understanding of issues faced by police officers every day.

What subjects are addressed?

Sessions begin with a presentation of the Police Department’s philosophy regarding the goals and visions of the command staff. Subsequent topics include hands-on instruction in the following areas:

The selection process attempts to reflect a balanced representation of the diversity of the Richardson community. Applications will be accepted based on recommendations from the youth’s school officials, parents, School Resource Officer, an adult member of the Richardson business community or Richardson Police Department employee.